Spotlight on… Rodney Morrell, Veteran and Person Living with ALS

Born and raised in Seattle, Washington, Rodney Morrell lived a storied life with fond memories. After moving to Missoula, Montana, he joined the Navy in 1974 and was chosen to serve at MCAS Miramar (formerly NAS Miramar) in San Diego, working on F-14 Tomcats – known as the Top Gun Squadron. It was there that Rodney met his former wife, who would become the mother of his two sons. 

In 1978, Rodney and his family moved back to Montana, where he received his A&P license and continued working in aviation before beginning a 20-year career in engineering with a telephone company. In addition, he also volunteered for the National Wild Turkey Federation and Bass Anglers Sportsman’s Society as a member and past president with a priority on fundraising.

Rodney enjoyed all that Montana had to offer. He often spent time in the wilderness – hunting, fishing, hiking, camping, and teaching his sons how to appreciate nature. After retiring, Rodney started to notice stumbling while he walked and a decline in his mobility. In 2014, he was misdiagnosed and went through several surgeries. During this time, Rodney had a strong gumption to build his own house, which he completed with the support of his friends.

After a life-threatening fall and continued progression of his dystrophy, Rodney and his wife moved to Hawaii to be closer to his family. In 2022, Rodney was diagnosed with ALS and became connected with the ALS Network.

In preparation for the 2024 Big Island Walk & Roll to Cure ALS, Rodney partnered with the ALS Network to co-organize the event. With the support from the VA and the incredible Team Rodney, the Walk raised over $24,500 in support of the ALS community in Hawaii – 60% of which was raised by Rodney’s own team. In recognition of his leadership, commitment, and advocacy, Rodney was awarded the 2024 ALS Hero Award.

“Never give up! ALS is a very challenging disease, it can overwhelm you if you let it. I chose not to let it! Sure there were trials and tribulations, but life has a way of making it through tough times provided you remain resilient. Every day is a blessing. My mantra is: ‘There are no bad days, only bad moments!’ I believe this and pass it on.”

– Rodney Morrell, Veteran and Person Living with ALS

To date, Rodney and his team have raised over $18,000 and continue to champion the ALS community and the ALS Network’s mission. His dedication has brought him to Oahu for the 2024 and 2025 Hawaii Walk and Roll to Cure ALS, where he spoke on stage with his dear friend and veteran living with ALS, Moose Armistead, about his journey with ALS.

“There are truly no organizations that are more dedicated to providing care! I believe those who are willing to make this their life’s work, there are Angels amongst us!”

– Rodney Morrell